In-home Euthanasia

In home euthanasia provides a way for pets to pass with dignity and comfort in their own home. Families can grief in privacy without having to hold back tears in a waiting room. Dr. Bennett and his staff offer assistance with the entire 'end of life' process including: hospice, counseling, euthanasia and care of remains. 

The process of home euthanasia

There are 3 stages of home euthanasia: Sedation, euthanasia and care of remains.

Sedation: Dr. Bennett will administer a sedative which will lead to a comfortable sleep within 3-10 minutes. Sedation is usually administered as an injection but depending upon the alertness of the patient an oral medication may be used first. 

Euthanasia: As soon as the pet is completely asleep Dr. Bennett and his assistant administer a highly concentrated barbiturate solution which causes instant passing.

Care of remains: After the euthanasia is complete, Dr. Bennett offers to leave the family alone with their loved one for 10-15 minutes so they can say goodbye. As soon as the family is ready, Dr. Bennett and his assistant will take the remains and provide private or communal cremation. 

Family members have the choice to be present or not for any part of the euthanasia procedure.

Preparing for in home euthanasia

1) Family members should decide if they want to be present during the euthanasia process prior to the doctors arrival.   Many family members prefer to only be present during the sedation  so they can comfort their pet as if fades to a peaceful sleep.

2) A decision should also be made pertaining to the aftercare that is desired: private burial, communal cremation or private cremation (please see aftercare).

3) A nice place with bedding or a blanket should be designated for the euthanasia. Preferably, this area is well lit with minimal distraction.

4) Upon arrival, Dr. Bennett or a staff member will ask that the necessary paperwork be filled out and that payment is made prior to performing the euthanasia.  This can all be done over phone, fax or email prior to the appointment. Appointments are not made for exact times but with in a 1-2 hour window. Usually Dr. Bennett shows up at the beginning of the appointment window. 

Care of remains

Dr. Bennett offers two choices for care of remains:

Private Cremation: Remains are cremated alone and the ashes are returned to the family in a cedar urn.

Communal Cremation: Remains are cremated with the remains of other animals and ashes are not returned to owner.

Service Area

Dr. Bennett Veterinary House Calls provides in home euthanasia services to the East Bay Area including Contra Costa County, Alameda County and Salano County. Our service radius includes Oakland, Montclair, Berkeley, Pinole, Richmond, Vallejo, Benecia, Martinez, Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Pittsburg, Alamo, Danville and San Ramone.